Northrop Grumman Corporation, reported that sales increased 49 percent, earnings from continuing operations increased 17 percent, and segment operating margin increased 44 percent, for the 2003 first quarter compared with the first quarter of 2002. The record results, in large measure, reflect strong contributions by the company's two new segments, Mission Systems and Space Technology; double-digit growth in sales and operating margins at three other segments, Electronic Systems, Ships and Information Technology; and a lower effective tax rate. Northrop Grumman reported income from continuing operations of $174 million, or $0.91 per share, compared with $149 million, or $1.27 per share, for the same period of 2002.